Sometimes, meeting new singles can feel impossible. Logically, you know that there are plenty of people you haven’t met yet; but, where are they hiding? 

The trick is to broaden your focus. Don’t think only of meeting eligible singles; think in terms of meeting new people in general. This is where picking up new activities comes in. It’s difficult to strike up a conversation when you have an agenda; easy when you are sharing interests. Not everyone you meet is going to be someone you are interested in romantically. But, these new people can introduce you to singles you might form a connection with.

Not sure where to start? Let these suggestions get your creative juices flowing:

1. Get involved in team sports. Soccer, softball or even roller derby are great ways to meet athletically inclined people.
2. Join your local arts organization. Most have regular events and classes.
3. Join a trivia team. Many bars and coffee shops have regular trivia nights. Show up and ask tables if they need an extra participant on their teams.
4. Join an investing club. You can learn something, make your future a bit more secure, and meet new people.
5. Take a fitness class. In my town, there is a yoga class that meets in the park, then adjourns to a local bar after. I’ve always thought it’d be a great way to meet new people.
6. Join a writer’s group. Most areas have ones that meet weekly or monthly.
7. Current events junkie? Volunteer on a political campaign. It doesn’t need to be a national election. There are local elections every year.
8. Musically inclined? Most areas have local choruses, bands, or other community music groups.
9. Join your local historical society. Historical reenactment groups are another good pick for history buffs.
10. Film buff? See if your area has a film appreciation club.
11. More of a reader? Most areas have at least one local book club.
12. Join a public speaking group like Toastmasters. Talking in front of a group is consistently listed as most people’s top fear. Not only can a public speaking group help you tackle that, sharing that process with other people can be a bonding experience.
13. Get involved in local theater. Even if you don’t see yourself appearing on-stage, there is plenty of behind the scenes help needed.
14. Take a cooking class. Often, you will be put in groups with other people, which will mean that you have to talk to one another.
15. Coastal or other wilderness clean up. These events happen a few times a year in most areas.
16. Community events volunteering. Most towns have festivals, art shows and music performances, and need people to help out.
17. Can’t find a local club that’s relevant to your interests? Start one. Designate a meet up spot, and put up flyers and notices on social networking sites.